When searching for the best diskless NAS for encrypted home backups, you want a device that balances security, performance, and ease of use. The Synology DS925+ stands out as the overall best pick for its robust encryption features and user-friendly interface. For those prioritizing hardware transcoding, the Synology DS225+ offers excellent multimedia capabilities, while the Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ provides a versatile option for expandability. Each of these options faces tradeoffs—such as cost versus feature set or complexity versus simplicity. Continue reading to explore the full breakdown and find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Top-tier encryption features are common among the best options, ensuring data security without sacrificing performance.
- Expandability and scalability vary widely; choosing between 2-bay and 4-bay models impacts future growth potential.
- Hardware transcoding capabilities are a key differentiator for multimedia-heavy backups, favoring models like the DS225+.
- Ease of setup and management can make or break user experience, especially for beginners or non-technical users.
- Price differences reflect not just hardware specs but also included software features and support services.
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless) |  | Best Overall for Encrypted Home Backups | Drive Bays: 4 | Network Ports: 2 x 2.5GbE | Throughput: 522/565 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding |  | Best for Compact, Encrypted Home Backups with Media Focus | Number of Bays: 2 | Processor: Intel CPU | Transfer Speed: 282 MB/s | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS |  | Best for Business-Grade Encrypted Home Backups with Multi-User Support | Number of Bays: 4 | Network Speed: 278 MB/s | Supports IP Cameras: 30 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS |  | Best for Power Users Needing Hardware Transcoding & Expandability | CPU: Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core | Memory: 4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB) | Storage Bays: 4 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T – 2 Bay NAS Plex Media Server (Diskless) |  | Best for Compact, High-Performance Encrypted Backups with Media Streaming | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105 | Memory: 4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB | Network Connectivity: Dual 2.5GbE | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen3 AS6806T 6-Bay NAS |  | Best for High-Performance, Demanding Workloads | Processor: AMD Ryzen Embedded V3C14 quad-core up to 3.8GHz | Memory: 16GB ECC DDR5 (expandable to 64GB) | Storage Slots: 4x PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD slots | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS124 Personal Backup & File Hub |  | Best for Easy, Secure Home Backups | Brand: Synology | Model Number: DS124 | Item Type: NAS | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM |  | Best for Balanced Performance and Expandability | Processor: Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | Storage Bays: 4 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage |  | Best for Scalable, Multi-User Encrypted Backup | Number of Bays: 2 | Maximum Storage Capacity: 140TB with DX525 | Warranty: 3 years | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j |  | Best for Compact, Energy-Efficient Home Backup | Brand: Synology | Model Number: DS223j | Number of Items: 1 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| diskless NAS for encrypted home backup | Warranty |
|---|---|
| Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS9 | 3 years |
| Synology DS225+ Private Cloud | 3 years |
| Synology DS425+ Private Cloud | 3 years |
| Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6 | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS67 | — |
| Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen3 AS68 | — |
| Synology DS124 Personal Backup | 2 years |
| QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS | — |
| Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS | 3 years |
| Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS2 | 2 years |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Synology 4-Bay DiskStation DS925+ (Diskless)
The Synology DS925+ stands out as the best choice for those seeking a versatile, high-speed diskless NAS that supports robust encryption for home backups. Its impressive throughput of up to 565 MB/s makes it suitable for large data transfers, outperforming smaller-capacity options like the Synology DS225+. The dual 2.5GbE ports provide fast network connectivity essential for encrypted backups, while its range of features—including file management, data protection, virtualization, and surveillance—offers a well-rounded solution. However, this device requires users to supply their own drives, adding extra cost, and may prove complex for beginners unfamiliar with NAS setup. The 3-year warranty offers peace of mind. This pick makes the most sense for users who want a powerful, expandable, multi-purpose NAS capable of encrypted backups and future-proofing, provided they’re comfortable handling technical setup.
Pros:- High data transfer speeds up to 565 MB/s for quick backups
- Dual 2.5GbE ports support fast network throughput
- Versatile features including file management, virtualization, and surveillance
- 3-year limited hardware warranty
Cons:- Requires purchasing and installing drives separately
- Potentially complex setup for novice users
Best for: Tech-savvy home users needing high-speed, multi-functional encrypted backups with room to expand.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking an all-in-one, ready-to-use solution without additional drive costs and setup complexity.
- Drive Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- Throughput:522/565 MB/s
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS is ideal for experienced users who need a high-performance, encrypted backup solution with expansion options.”
Synology DS225+ Private Cloud Media Server – 2-Bay NAS with Intel CPU for Hardware Transcoding
The Synology DS225+ offers a compact, 2-bay design that pairs well with encryption needs for smaller-scale home backups. Its Intel CPU enables hardware transcoding, making it a strong choice for media-heavy households, and its transfer speed of 282 MB/s is sufficient for encrypted backups, though it falls short of the DS925+’s performance. Multi-layered data protection options like RAID, snapshots, and backups bolster security, but the limited capacity of two drives could restrict long-term storage for larger backups. Additionally, setup and management require some technical skills, and users will need to buy drives separately. This model is best suited for users who prioritize media capabilities alongside encrypted backups in a smaller, reliable package, and are comfortable with management complexity.
Pros:- Supports hardware transcoding for smooth media playback
- Secure multi-layer data protection with RAID and snapshots
- Compact, reliable design with 3-year warranty
- Decent transfer speeds for a 2-bay NAS
Cons:- Limited to 2 drives, restricting total storage capacity
- Requires technical knowledge to set up and manage
- Additional costs for drives
Best for: Home users needing a compact, media-rich NAS that also handles encrypted backups securely.
Not ideal for: Large households or users with extensive data needs, due to its limited 2-bay capacity and slower transfer speeds compared to higher-end models.
- Number of Bays:2
- Processor:Intel CPU
- Transfer Speed:282 MB/s
- Supports IP Cameras:Up to 30
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS suits users wanting a small, media-friendly encrypted backup device with solid security features, provided they’re comfortable with setup complexity.”
Synology DS425+ Private Cloud Media Server – 4-Bay Diskless NAS
The Synology DS425+ combines high-speed data transfer of 278 MB/s with robust multi-user support, making it suitable for households with multiple users or small businesses. Its 4-bay configuration allows for larger storage arrays, with support for RAID and snapshots to secure data, which surpasses the 2-bay DS225+ in capacity and flexibility. This device’s advanced features, including surveillance support, make it versatile for encrypted backups combined with media streaming and remote access. Still, it demands technical setup and management skills, and the higher cost may be a barrier for some users. While it offers enterprise-level security features, its complexity makes it better suited for those familiar with NAS environments. It’s perfect for users who want a scalable, multi-purpose encrypted backup solution that grows with their needs.
Pros:- Supports multiple users with concurrent access
- High network transfer speeds suitable for backups and streaming
- Supports RAID, snapshots, and advanced data protection
- Versatile functionality including surveillance and file sharing
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
- No included drives, increasing initial costs
- Potentially higher price for enterprise features
Best for: Small business owners or tech-savvy home users requiring scalable, encrypted backups with multi-user access.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users preferring plug-and-play solutions due to its setup complexity and higher price point.
- Number of Bays:4
- Network Speed:278 MB/s
- Supports IP Cameras:30
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This NAS suits users seeking a scalable, multi-user encrypted backup system with advanced security and media capabilities, assuming technical proficiency.”
Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ AS6704T v2 4-Bay NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 4 Gen2+ is designed for users who want more than simple backups. Its powerful Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core processor and dual 5GbE ports deliver high-speed data transfer, making it suitable for encrypted backups at large volumes. Its support for both SATA drives and NVMe SSDs allows for performance tuning and caching, surpassing the simpler NAS options like the DS225+ in flexibility. The hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output cater to media-heavy workflows, while expandable memory up to 16GB provides future-proofing. However, its diskless design means additional drives are an added expense, and its advanced features can be intimidating for less experienced users. This model makes the most sense for users who want a powerful, media-capable NAS that can handle encrypted backups in a demanding environment.
Pros:- Dual 5GbE ports for fast network throughput
- Supports SATA HDD/SSD and NVMe SSD cache for performance
- Hardware 4K transcoding and HDMI output for media use
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB for future needs
Cons:- Requires purchasing drives separately
- Complex setup process may challenge novices
- Higher price point for advanced features
Best for: Power users or small businesses requiring high-speed, media-rich encrypted backups with expandability.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a straightforward, plug-and-play NAS without complex setup.
- CPU:Intel Celeron N5105 quad-core
- Memory:4GB DDR4 (expandable to 16GB)
- Storage Bays:4
- Network:Dual 5GbE ports
Our verdict“This NAS is best suited for power users or small businesses needing high-performance, media-capable encrypted backups with room to grow.”
Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T – 2 Bay NAS Plex Media Server (Diskless)
The Asustor Lockerstor 2 Gen2 AS6702T offers a compelling balance of speed and flexibility for encrypted home backups in a compact 2-bay design. Its dual 2.5GbE ports deliver fast data transfer, while support for M.2 NVMe SSDs allows for caching, boosting transfer and backup speeds—especially useful when encrypting data. The hardware transcoding capabilities and HDMI output make it ideal for media-rich environments, though the limited bays restrict total storage capacity. Its technical setup and configuration may be challenging for less experienced users, and it does not include drives, adding to initial costs. This NAS makes a strong case for users who want encrypted backups combined with media streaming in a space-efficient package, assuming they are comfortable with some technical management.
Pros:- Dual 2.5GbE ports for rapid data transfer
- Supports multiple NVMe SSDs for cache and performance boost
- Hardware transcoding and HDMI output support media use
- Expandable RAM up to 16GB
Cons:- Limited to 2 drive bays, restricting total storage
- Requires technical knowledge for setup
- No included drives, increasing overall cost
Best for: Enthusiast users needing a compact, fast, and media-capable encrypted backup solution with room for cache acceleration.
Not ideal for: Users with large data volumes requiring extensive storage capacity or those preferring simple, pre-configured solutions.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105
- Memory:4GB DDR4, expandable to 16GB
- Network Connectivity:Dual 2.5GbE
- Supported SSDs:4 M.2 NVMe slots
Our verdict“This NAS is well suited for performance-focused users who want encrypted backups paired with media capabilities in a compact form, with some management effort.”
Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen3 AS6806T 6-Bay NAS
The Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen3 stands out for its powerful AMD Ryzen processor and extensive networking options, making it ideal for those who need encrypted backups combined with virtualization or AI tasks. Compared to the Synology DS124, it offers significantly more processing power and expandability, but this comes at the cost of complexity and size. The dual 10GbE ports and PCIe 4.0 slots ensure ultra-fast data transfer and caching, which is beneficial for heavy encrypting workloads. However, its large footprint and advanced features might overwhelm casual users or those seeking simple backups. This device makes the most sense for tech-savvy users who require both high-performance storage and encryption. It does not include internal drives, so additional investment is necessary.
Pros:- Powerful AMD Ryzen processor for demanding tasks
- Dual 10GbE ports for ultra-fast network transfer
- Supports PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD caching for performance
Cons:- No internal drives included, requiring additional purchase
- Large size and complex setup may deter casual users
Best for: Power users running virtualization, AI, or media editing who need encrypted, high-speed access.
Not ideal for: Home users seeking straightforward backups without complex setup or high hardware demands.
- Processor:AMD Ryzen Embedded V3C14 quad-core up to 3.8GHz
- Memory:16GB ECC DDR5 (expandable to 64GB)
- Storage Slots:4x PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD slots
- Network Ports:Dual 10GbE + Dual 5GbE
- Dimensions:12.6 x 12.6 x 12.2 inches
- Weight:4600 g
Our verdict“Best suited for technically skilled users needing maximum performance and encryption support for intensive workloads.”
Synology DS124 Personal Backup & File Hub
The Synology DS124 offers a compact, straightforward solution for encrypted backup and private cloud access, making it ideal for users who prioritize security and simplicity. Unlike the QNAP TS-464, it lacks raw processing power and expansion options but excels in ease of use and robust data protection. Its support for automatic backups from multiple devices and AI-powered surveillance makes it a versatile choice for families and small households. The limited single-bay design restricts overall storage scalability, which could be a problem for users with growing data needs. This device is best for those who want reliable, encrypted backups without complicated setup or high hardware demands.
Pros:- Supports automatic backups from phones and computers
- Private cloud access from anywhere
- AI-powered surveillance with instant alerts
Cons:- Requires some technical knowledge for initial setup
- Limited to 1 bay, restricting storage scalability
Best for: Home users who need secure, automatic backups and private cloud access with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Power users or small businesses requiring larger or more scalable storage solutions.
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:DS124
- Item Type:NAS
- Number of Bays:1
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504005017
Our verdict“Ideal for non-technical users seeking a simple, secure, and reliable encrypted backup solution.”
QNAP TS-464 4-Bay Desktop NAS with 8GB RAM
The QNAP TS-464 balances processing power and storage flexibility, making it suitable for users who want encrypted backups with fast performance. Its Intel Celeron CPU and hardware encryption support outperform basic solutions like the Synology DS223j, especially when handling multiple backups or encryption tasks. The inclusion of M.2 SSD slots supports caching, boosting performance during encrypted data transfers. However, its setup can be complex for beginners, and it supports only up to 16GB RAM, limiting future expansion. This makes it a solid choice for small offices or advanced home users who need scalable, encrypted storage but are comfortable with a slightly steeper learning curve.
Pros:- Powerful hardware encryption support
- Supports SSD caching for performance boosts
- Expandable capacity up to 308 TB
Cons:- Complex setup for less experienced users
- Limited to 16GB RAM support
Best for: Small business owners or tech-savvy home users needing scalable, encrypted backup storage.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users expecting plug-and-play simplicity without technical setup.
- Processor:Intel Celeron N5105/N5095 quad-core
- RAM:8GB DDR4
- Storage Bays:4
- Network Ports:2 x 2.5GbE
- SSD Slots:2 M.2 PCIe Gen3x2 NVMe
- Max Storage Capacity:308 TB
Our verdict“Best for users needing a balance of encryption, expandability, and performance in a desktop NAS.”
Synology DS725+ Expandable NAS Storage
The Synology DS725+ offers a compelling combination of scalability and data protection, making it suitable for small households or small business environments. Its support for up to 140TB with an expansion unit and multi-layered encryption ensures secure, growing backups. Compared to the QNAP TS-464, it emphasizes data protection and expandability over raw processing power. The dual bays limit total storage unless paired with expansion units, which adds complexity and cost. It’s best for users who want a reliable, encrypted backup solution that can grow over time, but less so for those needing maximum local capacity without additional purchases.
Pros:- Supports up to 140TB with expansion
- Multi-layered data protection features
- Supports surveillance camera integration
Cons:- Requires additional expansion unit for full capacity
- Limited to 2 bays in base configuration
Best for: Small businesses or households planning future storage expansion with encryption needs.
Not ideal for: Users who need immediate large storage or simple, out-of-the-box solutions without expansion.
- Number of Bays:2
- Maximum Storage Capacity:140TB with DX525
- Warranty:3 years
- Supports Surveillance Cameras:Yes
- Expansion Compatibility:DX525
Our verdict“Ideal for small-scale operations seeking scalable, encrypted backup with room to grow.”
Synology 2-Bay DiskStation DS223j
The Synology DS223j offers a small, energy-efficient option for encrypted backups and private cloud, competing well with the DS124 in a compact form. Its two bays are suitable for users with limited storage needs or those just starting with encrypted home backups. While it lacks the scalability of larger systems like the QNAP TS-464, its simplicity and reliable hardware make it accessible for users comfortable with network setup. The limited bays and no RAID support mean it’s less suitable for expanding storage or handling large data volumes in the future. This device works best for users prioritizing encrypted, secure backups in a straightforward, energy-efficient package.
Pros:- Secure private cloud and multi-platform access
- Automated backups from multiple devices
- Supports surveillance with IP camera compatibility
Cons:- Requires technical knowledge for setup
- Limited to 2 drive bays with no RAID support
Best for: Home users needing a secure, compact NAS for encrypted backups and remote access.
Not ideal for: Power users or those with growing storage needs that require RAID or more bays.
- Brand:Synology
- Model Number:DS223j
- Number of Items:1
- Warranty:2 years
- UPC:846504004768
Our verdict“Best for users seeking a simple, reliable, and encrypted private cloud in a compact form.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on a combination of performance, security features, ease of use, expandability, and value. Priority was given to models that support advanced encryption protocols, such as AES-256, and provide robust user management tools. We also evaluated the hardware architecture for future-proofing, including RAM options and CPU performance. Ease of setup and management was considered essential, especially for users new to NAS devices. The ranking reflects a balance between feature set and affordability, emphasizing models that deliver reliable encrypted backups without unnecessary complexity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Diskless NAS For Encrypted Home Backups
Choosing the best diskless NAS for encrypted home backups involves balancing several factors. Beyond raw hardware specs, considerations like encryption standards, ease of use, and scalability play crucial roles. Understanding these factors can help you avoid common pitfalls and select a device that truly fits your security needs and future plans.Encryption Capabilities
Look for NAS devices that support strong encryption standards, such as AES-256, both at rest and in transit. Not all NAS solutions implement these protocols equally, so verify the security features before committing. An encrypted backup is only as secure as the device’s ability to safeguard data, so prioritize models with dedicated hardware encryption engines for minimal performance impact.
Performance and Hardware
Performance matters when handling large backups or multiple users simultaneously. Pay attention to CPU power, RAM capacity, and network interface speeds—preferably gigabit or higher. A more powerful processor ensures smoother encryption processing and faster backups, but it can also drive up costs. Balance your needs with your budget to avoid overpaying for unnecessary specs.
Ease of Management
A straightforward user interface and reliable management tools significantly reduce setup time and ongoing maintenance. Features like remote access, automated backups, and easy encryption key management are major pluses. If you aren’t technically inclined, opt for models with clear documentation and strong customer support to avoid frustration.
Expandability and Scalability
Consider future storage needs—whether you’ll need to add drives or upgrade hardware. 4-bay models generally offer more flexibility than 2-bay options. Also, check if the NAS supports expansion units or external drives, which can extend lifespan and usefulness. Skipping these considerations might lead to early obsolescence or costly upgrades later.
Price and Value
While budget options can be tempting, they may lack critical security features or performance. Conversely, premium models often include additional software features and better hardware. Focus on the core needs—encrypted backups and ease of use—and choose a device that offers the best balance of features for your budget. Sometimes, investing a bit more upfront saves money and hassle in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the hardware of a diskless NAS later?
Yes, most diskless NAS devices support hardware upgrades such as additional RAM or faster network interfaces. However, the ability to upgrade CPU or internal components is often limited or non-existent. Carefully review the specifications and upgrade policies of each model to ensure longevity and flexibility for future needs.
What encryption standards should I look for in a NAS?
The most secure options typically support AES-256 encryption for data at rest and TLS protocols for data in transit. These standards are widely trusted in enterprise settings and suitable for home backups. Verify that the NAS’s firmware and software support these encryption protocols to maintain your data’s security integrity.
Is a diskless NAS easier to set up than one with drives?
Generally, yes. Diskless models often come with minimal pre-installed hardware, making initial setup more straightforward. You only need to install drives and configure your network and security settings. However, the complexity depends on the chosen software and management interface—some models offer more guided setup processes than others.
How important is hardware transcoding for encrypted backups?
Hardware transcoding is mainly relevant if you plan to use the NAS for media streaming or multimedia processing. For backups, it’s less critical, but it can be beneficial if you need to encrypt and transcode large video files quickly. Keep in mind that transcoding hardware might add to the cost and power consumption.
Should I prioritize software features over hardware specs?
Both matter, but the right balance depends on your use case. If encryption and security are top priorities, ensure the device’s software supports robust security protocols. Hardware specs like CPU and RAM influence overall performance, especially during encryption tasks. For most home users, a combination of good hardware and security features provides the best experience.
Conclusion
For general home users prioritizing overall security and ease of use, the Synology DS925+ remains the best choice thanks to its strong encryption features and user-friendly management. Those with a multimedia focus should consider the Synology DS225+ or QNAP TS-464 for hardware transcoding capabilities. Budget-conscious buyers or beginners might prefer the Synology DS223j for simplicity and value. If expandability and future-proofing are key, the Asustor Lockerstor 6 Gen3 offers plenty of room to grow. Ultimately, your selection should align with your current needs and future plans—prioritizing security, performance, or ease of use accordingly.
